A Lurgan man with “a serious difficulty with drugs” has been handed a suspended prison sentence.
The 27-year-old’s solicitor told court the defendant had began engaging with a residential rehabilitation program to tackle the “crux” of his problems.
Aaron Hughes, of Victoria Street, pleaded guilty to possession of Class C at Craigavon Magistrates’ on Friday.
It was heard that on July 21, police were called to Victoria Street in Lurgan over concerns for the safety of the defendant, who had taken 20 Pregablin tablets and sliced his arm.
Officers arrived and spoke to Hughes, and during a search 14 Pregablin tablets were located in his pocket.
He was subsequently arrested.
During interview he said he had ordered the pills from the internet for £20 and did not have a prescription for the drug.
Defence solicitor Philip Reid stated: “This man has had a longstanding difficulty with drugs; he has now joined a church through which he has found help.
“He has begun a 12 month rehabilitation residential program in Liverpool, this is the crux of this man’s difficulties.”
Deputy District Judge Gerry Treanor said: “Obviously these are serious matters, one just has to take a glance at your record to see you have a serious difficulty with drugs.”
Hughes was sentenced to three months in prison suspended for 18 months.
